Russia offers to sell state-of-the-art strike fighter (SU-35)

[ejaz007]

Russia offers to sell state-of-the-art strike fighter
Sandeep Dikshit

Su-35 has larger wings and more powerful engines than Sukhoi-30

Pilot can track up to 30 aerial targets while engaging eight at the same time


NEW DELHI: Russia is ready to export state-of-the-art Su-35 air superiority-cum-strike fighter to India, said officials of Rosoboronexport, the country’s sole arms exporting company.

The fourth generation plus (4 +) fighter is rated next to the fifth generation American F-22 Raptor, which, however, is not for export. Till now, the Russians were also not keen on selling the fighter.

Su-35 has larger wings and more powerful engines than the Sukhoi-30 MKI, which is in service with the Indian Air Force, with more fighters being added at one a month.

It also uses more advanced materials for the airframe and incorporates a new-generation radar which allows the pilot to detect and track up to 30 aerial targets while engaging up to eight of them at the same time.

Russia intends exporting at least 160 Su-35 to customers of its Su-30 series.

Although India has tendered for 126 medium multirole fighters worth $10.2 billion, the offer for this aircraft, heavier in weight than the requirement, would be looked upon with interest. For, Su-35 would give the IAF a clear edge over the fighters being operated by other countries in the region.

Superior engines


According to the company, the fighter is powered by engines that are much superior to those fitted on Su-30.

It is equipped with a 30-mm cannon with 150 rounds and can carry up to eight tonnes of combat payload.

If the offer is accepted, Russia will be prepared to export the fighters in 2011, ahead of the timeline envisaged by India for the 126 medium multirole fighters.

:: Bharat-Rakshak.com - Indian Military News Headlines ::

 

[nitesh]

he he he, a new MRCA contender, but I don't think so that it will be considered as other players will definitely cry foul

 

[su-47]

no. i dont think it will be considered. it might be better than MKI, but we need Medium aircraft, not heavy ones, and SU-35 falls into heavy category. besides, we'll be getting PAKFA, so no need to buy Su-35.

 

[nitesh]

no. i dont think it will be considered. it might be better than MKI, but we need Medium aircraft, not heavy ones, and SU-35 falls into heavy category. besides, we'll be getting PAKFA, so no need to buy Su-35.

I think but MKI can use new techs that are developed for SU-35, like new engines, news missiles etc. Overall i agree we need not to go for SU-35

 

[Myth_buster_1]

what is this... the budget is only 10 $billion and they are demanding $30-40 billion contenders... nothing but media show off stunt.. they simply hoping for too much with little money...

 

[nitesh]

what is this... the budget is only 10 and they are demanding $30-40 billion contenders... nothing but media show off stunt.. they simply hoping for too much with little money...

how you reached to the magical figure of $30-40 billion.

 

[Myth_buster_1]

how you reached to the magical figure of $30-40 billion.

I was referring to MRCA tenders.. KSA recently paid $40 billion for its 74 euro fighters that includes spares, training etc... mig-35 seems to be a better choice..

 

[nitesh]

I was referring to MRCA tenders.. KSA recently paid $40 billion for its 74 euro fighters that includes spares, training etc... mig-35 seems to be a better choice..

I think you are referring Saudis, that cost is a life cycle cost, means it includes spares, training, maintenance and upgrades also.

 

[Energon]

It doesn't seem like the Su-35 fits the IAF's requirements. HAL has its hands full with the Su-30MKI production while the MRCA competition is still on. I highly doubt the IAF has funds required to operate such a massive and fastidious aircraft in large numbers.

The money would be better spent on investing into ensuring modifications and a great MLU package for the Su-30MKI, perhaps investing into the development of a dedicated EW variant and hurrying up other impending projects. Eventually the PAK-FA will be the frontline heavy fighter while the MRCAs, upgraded Su-30MKIs and the LCA (if it is good enough) will form the backbone. There doesn't seem to be room for the Su-35.

 

[nitesh]

It doesn't seem like the Su-35 fits the IAF's requirements. HAL has its hands full with the Su-30MKI production while the MRCA competition is still on. I highly doubt the IAF has funds required to operate such a massive and fastidious aircraft in large numbers.

The money would be better spent on investing into ensuring modifications and a great MLU package for the Su-30MKI, perhaps investing into the development of a dedicated EW variant and hurrying up other impending projects. Eventually the PAK-FA will be the frontline heavy fighter while the MRCAs, upgraded Su-30MKIs and the LCA (if it is good enough) will form the backbone. There doesn't seem to be room for the Su-35.

Yes it will be a good idea that once the SU30 MKI production is complete, then look for an upgrade using the new engines etc. But a limited number of SU 35 (3-4 squadrons) in flyaway condition can be sought out as these are single seater planes and can complement the MRCA winner well and can help in filling the depleting squadron strength quickly.